Today marks a momentous occasion for Pike County as we celebrate AES Indiana's announcement of approximately $1.1 billion in investments from 2024 to 2026. As the Director of the Pike County Chamber of Commerce, I am thrilled to share this exciting news that will undoubtedly help shape the future of our community in remarkable ways.


​AES Indiana's plans include the transformation of the Petersburg Generating Station Units 3 and 4 from coal to natural gas, pending approval from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC). This transition is a testament to AES Indiana's commitment to cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions that will benefit not just our county, but the entire state. The introduction of two new projects, including the Pike County Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) and the Petersburg Energy Center, will bring 250 megawatts (MW) of solar power and 180 megawatt-hours (MWh) of battery storage to our region. This will ensure that Pike County remains at the forefront of grid reliability, flexibility, and sustainability.
The impact of these projects on our community cannot be overstated. During the construction phase alone, approximately 300 jobs will be created, providing a significant boost to our local economy. Over the next 20 years, these investments are expected to generate approximately $40 million in taxes and benefits for Pike County. This is not just an investment in energy—it's an investment in our people, our businesses, and our future.
Ken Zagzebski, CEO of AES Utilities, highlighted the importance of these projects, emphasizing that the economic growth in our state has long been powered by the dedicated workers at Petersburg. With these new investments, Pike County will continue to play a crucial role in Indiana's energy future, transitioning to natural gas while incorporating solar, and battery storage capacity.
These projects will position Pike County as a leader in clean energy, contributing to environmental improvements and offering reliable, affordable energy solutions for residents and businesses alike.
Brandi Davis-Handy AES Indiana President, also announced a $100,000 donation for the construction of the new Petersburg Community Center. This center will be a valuable resource for residents of all ages that will enrich our community and contribute to our quality of life.
Many key community leaders attended and shared their gratitude for AES. Ashley Willis, Executive Director of the Pike County Economic Development Corporation, spoke passionately about the positive impact these projects will have on our local economy and quality of life. She also expressed her gratitude for investing in Pike County.  Petersburg Mayor R.C. Klipsch echoed these sentiments. Mayor Klipsch also spoke about the history of the great partnership between Pike County and AES.
I am optimistic for the future of Pike County.  

If you’ve ever spent any time creating or consuming content, you have either written or read apiece that proclaims some marketing trend is dead or something is “king.” Be it a social media platform, marketing activity, way of doing things—one thing is always going out of fashion, and something is lauded as taking its place.
This article is no different. Today, we’re asking the riveting question—Are blogs dead (or dying)and can we blame AI?
Of course, I had to turn to AI for the answers. First, let’s see what AI has to say and then I’ll give you my marketing take.
Video Killed the Radio Star or AI Killed the Blogger
According to AI, blogs are not dead so our question about AI killing blogs doesn’t appear to be a valid one. However, how valuable will written content be when it all starts to sound the same? If you are using AI to write your business blog, make sure you’re doing the work to help it understand your blogging goals and tone. If all blogs begin to sound the same, the format will surely die (my prediction not AI’s).
In fact, AI writes that blogs are thriving in many ways. Here’s why:

•  Blogging is still a popular format: Millions of (⦁ 7.5, to be exact) blog posts are published every day, and readership remains strong. (Out of the 5 billion people using the internet daily, 77% say they read blogs on a “regular” basis.) 
• Blogs drive traffic to websites: Blogs can attract visitors who are interested in your niche, products, or services. Well-written and informative blog posts can improve your website's search engine optimization (SEO), making it easier for potential customers to find you online.
• Blogs establish authority: By consistently sharing valuable content, you can position yourself as an expert in your field. This can build trust and credibility with your audience.
• Blogs foster community: Blogs can create a space for conversation and engagement with your audience. This can help you build relationships with potential and current customers.

​Always the contrarian, I must point out that blogging does take time (even when you use AI to write it). 
Now that we can breathe a sigh of relief that blogs aren’t dead, let’s focus on whether they are worth the time investment as part of your marketing strategy.
Return on (Time) Investment and SEO
While starting and maintaining a blog does require a sizeable investment of time (or resources if you pay someone to do it for you), the potential return can be significant when you factor in the following:

• SEO: Search engines prioritize fresh, relevant content. Regularly updating your blog with high-quality posts can improve your website's ranking in search results, leading to increased organic traffic. This, in turn, can bring in more organic leads and sales.
• Lead generation: Blog posts can be used to capture leads through email sign-ups or calls to action.
• Brand awareness: A well-maintained blog can help to increase awareness of your brand and what you offer.
• Monetization: If you build a strong following, you can incorporate ad revenue and affiliate marketing (for products and services you believe in) and make even more revenue on your posts.

Should I Spend Time on a Blog?
The answer depends on your specific goals and resources. If you have the time and expertise to create valuable content, a blog can be a powerful tool for growing your business. However, if you don't have the bandwidth to create high-quality content consistently, it may be better to focus on other marketing efforts. After all, your blog won’t be successful if it’s just one large advertisement for your business. You want to help educate, inform, and entertain your audience (or at least help them get to know you better). Buy, buy, buy, isn’t going to get you there (no matter how catchy that boy band song from the 90s is).
But that’s not to say you shouldn’t blog. You just need to ensure that the time you spend is worth it. 
Here’s how you do that:
Making a Blog Worth Your Time

• Focus on quality: Create informative, engaging content that your target audience will find valuable.
• Optimize for SEO: Use relevant keywords, internal links, and meta descriptions to improve your blog's search ranking.
• Promote your blog: Share your posts on social media, email newsletters, and other channels.
• Track your results: Use analytics to measure your blog's performance and identify areas for improvement. Keep close attention on popular topics and how you might dive deeper into them for additional views.

Blogging Away from Home
While most marketers will tell you that your website is the best place for your business blog (since you own it and it’s a great way to drive traffic to your site), there are reasons to go elsewhere—such as revenue, pursuit of a new audience, or desire to try a different approach or strategy. Additional considerations include your industry and your goals for your blog. 
Many bloggers are using alternative blog homes such as:

• Medium
• Substack
• Industry blogs
• Guest blogging for influencers
• Chamber of commerce blogs or newsletters

These third-party locations can bring a new audience into your business, and some offer the possibility of earning blog income. They also can be spots to try something new since they are removed from your existing audience. They may also be highly regarded and a post published there may set you up as a thought leader in your industry.
Deciding to stay home or blog elsewhere needn’t be an all or nothing approach. You can write a blog a month for other sources and use it to reach out to more readers. Most alternative blog spaces (meaning ones not owned by you) will allow for a link back, a bio, or by-line. So, there are SEO as well as audience reasons to spread out.
Remember, a blog is just one component of a strong marketing strategy. While many people argue that audiences don’t read these days, blogging for SEO is still a compelling reason to create new content for your website. Choose a post length and posting commitment that you can manage and use the written word to make humans and search engines interested in you.

When Shakespeare wrote, “And though she be but little, she is fierce,” he could’ve been referring to small business. The term “small business” often seems like an oxymoron. What small businesses lack in number of employees, they make up for in dedication, drive, giving back to the community, and unique charm. Those things resonate with customers seeking authenticity, personalized service, and a sense of community. 
But when it’s time to grow, and take your business to the next level, you want to make sure that the very thing about you that is so appealing isn’t lost. You want to maintain your distinct local essence, and strike that delicate balance between growth and preserving your identity in the hearts and minds of your audience.

Embrace the Strength of Community Engagement

At the heart of any local business's success lies its relationship with the community it serves. Strengthening this bond can be a catalyst for growth. Engage with the community through events, sponsorships, and collaborations with other local businesses or organizations. This involvement not only enhances visibility but also reinforces your commitment to your roots, no matter how many locations you open.
Hosting workshops, supporting local causes, or participating in community events can continue your position as a trusted and valued member of the neighborhood. Moreover, actively seeking feedback from patrons and implementing their suggestions to tailor products or services can help you meet local preferences. This will continue to foster loyalty and word-of-mouth marketing.

Leverage Digital Platforms But Keep the Personal Voice

In the beginning, your social presence probably felt very personalized because you were likely the voice behind the business. But as you grow, your abilities are needed elsewhere. Posting to social media is likely one of those things you will outsource or entrust to someone in-house. But make sure you don’t lose your voice. Work with someone who will adopt the same tone and post on the things your audience is most interested in. Retain that local flavor that characterizes your business. 
Utilize social media platforms to share stories, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and testimonials, showcasing your business's personality and values. Maintaining responsive communication online, along with personalized service through other channels, creates a seamless blend of technology and tradition, enhancing the overall customer experience. Additionally, give your audience multiple ways to interact with you to obtain resolutions to their questions and concerns. You don’t want someone feeling like now that you’ve grown, you’re less responsive.

Cultivate Unique Offerings and Specializations

If your success is due to specializing in niche products, services, or markets, don’t give that up unless they’re no longer lucrative. Don’t think that because you want to grow, you need to appeal to a wider audience. After all, that specialization was a unique selling proposition (USP), and it helped you build what you are today—drawing customers seeking distinctiveness and quality over mass-produced alternatives. 
If that product or service is no longer as successful as it once was, try figuring out why. If your audience is the same, how have their needs or desires evolved. You can serve the same audience, but you may need to do it in different ways.

Foster Partnerships and Collaborations

Collaborations with complementary local businesses can be mutually beneficial, amplifying visibility and attracting diverse customer bases. For instance, a café might partner with a nearby florist for themed events or collaborate with a local artist to display and sell artwork within its space.
Additionally, forming alliances with nearby businesses to create joint promotions or loyalty programs can encourage cross-pollination of customers, fostering a sense of community among various establishments. You see this in digital marketing all the time when senders plug their peers in their newsletters. They are simply sharing audiences.

Expand Thoughtfully and Sustainably

Expansion doesn't necessarily mean extensive physical growth. Consider alternative avenues such as online sales, pop-up shops, or partnerships with local markets or fairs to reach new customers without compromising the small business ambiance. Establishing and managing multiple locations isn’t for everyone.
If you are interested in physical expansion, prioritize locations that align with your business's standards, values, and appeal. Think of your audience and its needs. Retaining a coherent brand identity across multiple locations is crucial to preserve the local feel when expanding your business's footprint.
Take a look at Grimaldi’s. It opened in 1990, in a small neighborhood under the Brooklyn Bridge referred to as DUMBO. It started humbly as a local pizzeria; but quickly became part of the heart and soul of the growing community. As Grimaldi’s expanded into other markets, it could’ve shed its Brooklyn vibe, being just another pizza place. But it held onto its roots and sold New York-style pizza in a New York ambiance. No matter which location you visit—Las Vegas, Dallas, or Tampa—you will be in Brooklyn, NY back in the neighborhood. 

Invest in Employee Development and Customer Service

The backbone of your business's success lies in your employees and the quality of customer service they provide. Invest in employee training because your employees are your business personified. They communicate your business's values and commitment to personalized service in every interaction. Happy and well-trained employees contribute significantly to a positive customer experience, fostering loyalty and word-of-mouth recommendations.
Maintaining a high standard of customer service, coupled with a personalized touch, distinguishes local businesses from larger, impersonal corporations, creating a lasting impression on customers.
Successful small businesses possess a distinctive charm that resonates with customers seeking genuine connections and unique experiences. While expansion is a natural progression, preserving your business's authenticity is imperative. Balancing growth and your special something is an art and takes practice and compromise. But with a strategic approach, you can continue to thrive, serving as a favorite in the community while embracing new opportunities for success.

The Pike County Chamber of Commerce had the privilege of welcoming Rebekah Luff, a dedicated AmeriCorps member, to work with us last Monday and Tuesday. Her contributions during her brief time home for the 4th of July holiday were greatly appreciated. She helped work on marketing and informational material for Pike County's participation in the Southern Indiana Regional Marketing Co-Op (SIRMC) and more.
Rebekah, a Pike County native and 2019 graduate of Pike Central High School (PCHS), and earned a bachelor's degree in biology from Indiana University Southeast in December 2022. We were thrilled to learn more about AmeriCorps and their work
Understanding AmeriCorps and Its Mission
AmeriCorps is a national service program dedicated to addressing critical community needs across the United States. Established in 1994, AmeriCorps brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds to engage in service projects that enhance education, economic opportunity, environmental stewardship, disaster response, healthy futures, support veterans and military families.
Accepted applicants commit to serving for a set period, typically 10 months, in various roles that directly benefit communities. These roles can range from mentoring students to disaster response and recovery, environmental conservation, and community health initiatives.
One of the unique aspects of AmeriCorps is its focus on fostering civic engagement and leadership. Members receive valuable training and professional development opportunities, equipping them with skills that extend beyond their service term. They often work in collaboration with local nonprofits, schools, and government agencies to create sustainable, positive change.
AmeriCorps embodies the spirit of service and community. By mobilizing individuals to tackle pressing issues and empowering them to become active citizens, AmeriCorps helps build stronger, more resilient communities. The dedication and impact of service leaders like Luff are a testament to the power of collective action and the difference it can make.
Rebekah Luff's AmeriCorps Journey
Luff's journey with AmeriCorps has taken her to various locations across the country, each offering unique experiences and opportunities to serve. Here are the highlights of her assignments:

• Vinton, IA: This location serves as the campus/homebase for AmeriCorps members. Luff underwent a month-long training there before heading out on projects and returned between assignments to report on her experiences and prepare for the next steps.
• Buffalo, NY:  Luff worked with Habitat for Humanity Buffalo on seven different houses, engaging in tasks such as insulation, drywall, framing, trim, flooring, and painting.
• Fulton, OH: At Homewood Pines, she maintained and created trails in the summer camp. She also participated in trash cleanup at a nearby park and spent a day working with a local food bank to learn more about the community.
• Ozaukee County, WI: Working with the Ozaukee County Planning and Parks Department, She planted trees to diversify the parks and restore forests devastated by the Emerald Ash Borer. She also removed invasive species such as dame's rocket and garlic mustard.
• Chicago, IL: As part of the Westside Long Term Recovery Group, They conducted outreach to families impacted by a flood in July 2023. They found that many families, predominantly African American and with a median household income of less than $50,000 a year, were dealing with mold and had not been able to repair damage to personal belongings or household utilities.

Upcoming Project
Luff's next assignment will take her to Delaware, OH, where she will work at the Methodist Theological School in Ohio. Her tasks may include clearing a stream bed and surrounding areas of felled trees from a March tornado, removing invasive species, mulching, and maintaining trails. Additionally, they will collaborate with the Stratford Ecological Center on hay bale management and farm animal care.
Why AmeriCorps?
Luff chose to join AmeriCorps after completing college, seeking to gain experience in environmental conservation while having the opportunity to travel. The program offered both opportunities, along with a small living stipend and coverage of many necessities. Other members join AmeriCorps to become better leaders, meet people from across the country, develop a variety of skills, or earn the scholarship awarded at the end of service. Open to individuals aged 18-26, the program attracts people from diverse backgrounds, including recent high school graduates, those who found college wasn't for them, students taking a gap year, and graduates seeking direction for their next steps. To find more information go to www.americorps.gov AmeriCorps website.

​PRESS RELEASE: June 20, 2024
Contact: Laura Hazelman, Regional Director of Community Engagement and Impact
812.890.4469 (cell) or [email protected]


​PIKE COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION IS  NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR COMMUNITY GOOD GRANTS
 The Pike County Community Foundation is now accepting online applications for
its Community Good Grants Program. The deadline to submit applications is Noon on Thursday,
August 1, 2024.
The Foundation awards Community Good grants to charitable partners located in or directly serving
Pike County. Funding opportunities are available to support a broad range of local needs. Grants are
normally given as one-time support of a project but may be considered for additional support or for
expansions or outgrowths of an initial project. All organizations submitting grant proposals will be
notified of the outcome on or before October 31, 2024.
Charitable organizations can view details related to funding requirements and access the grant
application via the Foundation’s website at https://www.pikecountycf.org/grants.
Agencies and projects not eligible for funding include religious organizations proposing activities that
support a religious purpose; political parties or campaigns; endowment creation or debt reduction;
capital campaigns; annual appeals or membership contributions; and travel requests for groups or
individuals such as bands, sports teams, or school classes.
For questions, contact Laura Hazelman, Regional Director of Community Engagement and Impact at;
812.890.4469 (cell) or via email [email protected].

​If you are in a client services business (especially one where your clients might return over and over), one of the best things you can do to set yourself up for success is to understand who you want to work with and who aligns with your skills and talent.  
 
If you’re just starting off, or you’ve fallen on hard times, it’s tempting to work with anyone and everyone. But you’ll end up sabotaging yourself in the long run when you choose to work with the “wrong” clients.
 
After all, there are limited hours in the workday. If you’re plugging just anyone into those spots, there may not be room for the clients that you find the most desirable.
 
Why Do I Need an Ideal Client? 
There are two reasons you should get very clear on who your ideal client is—knowing who they are makes them easier to target from a marketing perspective and you’ll be more satisfied with your business in the long run.
 
But how do you know who your ideal client is? Isn’t your ideal client anyone who can pay?
 
Hardly.
 
Yes, you want someone who can pay but that shouldn’t be your only criteria. It’s important to understand how to identify the people you work best with.
 
Part of that is defined by the nature of your business or industry. But part of it is also how you want to shape your business.
 
First, ask yourself the following questions to understand your ideal customer. They may not all apply to your type of business, but they are a good start. Then use your answers to adjust your marketing and design a customer questionnaire to ensure you’re working with people who are a good fit for the kind of business you want to have.
 
15+ Questions to Ask Yourself to Identify Your Ideal Clients
While it’s tempting to work with “just anyone,” you will be more efficient, happier, less prone to burnout, and more passionate about your business if you are selective with your clients.
 
Ask yourself:

1. What kind of industries or products align with my interests/values? Conversely, what do I not support or have interest in?
2. What kinds of projects take my professional growth in the direction I’m most interested in?
3. What kind of communication mediums do I enjoy? (If you have a specific client possibility in mind, pay attention to their communication frequency.) Does their style align with mine?
4. What level of creative freedom do I prefer? Do I want to co-create or create alone?
5. How do I feel about being micromanaged? Will I market myself as an expert or an assistant?
6. How flexible am I with what I charge? Am I open to customizable projects or just specific services as laid out in my offerings?
7. Do I want to be on retainer with a few clients who control my schedule or have many clients and the freedom in my own scheduling?
8. Do I prefer working independently or collaboratively? Do I thrive when leading a project solo, or do I enjoy the energy and shared responsibility of a team?
9. What level of responsibility do I enjoy? Do I want to check-in and get sign-offs or only on final deliverables?
10. What types of tasks energize me? Do I enjoy the creative aspects of brainstorming and ideation, the detail-oriented work of implementation, or the analytical challenge of problem-solving?
11. What types of projects align with my skills and interests? Do I want to do, teach, or consult?
12. Do I excel in projects that require strong communication, technical expertise, or creative vision?
13. What is my preferred pace of work? Short quick projects/deliverables or longer ongoing projects? Do I thrive under pressure and tight deadlines, or do I prefer a more steady and predictable workload?
14. What environment do I like to work in? On-site, at home, or the freedom to do either?
15. Is there a demographic I love? For instance, maybe you like to work with new business owners in their 30s because you understand their motivations and you feel invested in the outcomes.

If you take the time to understand your ideal client, you will be much more satisfied in the long run. There are many people in the world you can help but when you find that ideal demographic, your work will be even more rewarding, and your clients will feel it too.

Hello Pike County Residents and Trail Enthusiasts,
Let’s celebrate National Trail Day today, it's an exciting time to speak on the importance of trails in our community and share some news about a significant local project in the works. Quality of life is a cornerstone of any vibrant community, and here in Pike County, we are committed to enhancing it through the development of new and improved trails.
 
The Buffalo Trace Trail
We are excited to share information about the Buffalo Trace Trail project, a collaborative effort between Pike County, the City of Petersburg, and the Pike County Economic Development Corporation, with generous support from the Pike County Community Foundation. Together, they are working with VS Engineering to develop plans and a feasibility study for a trail that will connect two beloved parks: Hornady Park in Petersburg and Prides Creek Park in Pike County.
 
Project Highlights
- Distance and Connectivity:
The Buffalo Trace Trail will add over two miles of new trail, connecting with the existing 5-mile fitness path and enhancing the network at both parks.
- Safety and Accessibility:
 They are focused on identifying the safest and most affordable routes, with a particular emphasis on the Illinois Street area. This high-traffic zone, which includes healthcare facilities, businesses, and the Little League Park, will greatly benefit from the addition of a trail or sidewalk.
- Community Impact:
 Many residents already walk and run along Illinois Street. The trail will be a valuable asset by making these activities safer and more enjoyable, fostering a healthier, more connected community.
 
 
 
Why Trails Matter
Trails are more than just paths through nature; they are vital infrastructure that enhances our quality of life. They provide safe spaces for exercise, offer recreational opportunities for families, and are an essential factor in attracting young talent to our area. Young adults increasingly prioritize quality-of-life amenities, and projects like the Buffalo Trace Trail make Pike County a more attractive place to live, work, and play.
 
 Looking Ahead
Trails are complex projects that require time and careful planning. This project is currently in the feasibility and planning stages and we will share more information as it becomes available. Your support and patience are greatly appreciated as they move forward with this exciting endeavor.
 
Stay Informed
For those who want to stay informed please contact Ashley Willis at [email protected]. Your input and enthusiasm are invaluable as we work together to bring this vision to life.
 
Happy Trails!
Jill Hyneman Executive Director, Pike County Chamber of Commerce